David

David is one of the principal characters of the Bible. His name is mentioned more than 1,000 times in Scripture, making it one of the most frequently referenced names in the Word of God. In the New Testament, his name appears immediately after that of the Lord Jesus: “The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David” (Matthew 1:1). Significantly, David is also among the final names mentioned in the New Testament: “I am the root and the offspring of David... The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen” (Revelation 22:16–21).

David is therefore a character who, in many ways, foreshadows our blessed Lord, and his life is filled with lessons and spiritual meaning for believers today.

The emphasis of this character study is not merely to retell David’s story, though some narrative detail is necessary, but rather to consider the practical lessons his life teaches us today. As such, this book is devotional and practical in nature rather than strictly expository.

Thirteen of David’s Psalms include titles that identify the circumstances in which they were written. These Psalms are arranged chronologically throughout the book and placed after the relevant chapters without commentary, allowing the reader to reflect on them in their historical setting. Where no Psalm is known to belong to a particular period, an appropriate Psalm has been selected instead.

It is hoped that reading these Psalms in their context will provide a “Selah” moment — an opportunity for deeper reflection on the Word of God and a greater appreciation of our God.